Bala Mohammed, Bauchi State Governor has enjoined Muslim ummah in the state to emulate prophet Muhammad peace be upon him by making sacrifices for the benefit of less privileged members of the society.
The governor made the plea in a goodwill message on the occasion of the 2020 Eid-El fitr celebrations.
Governor Bala urged Muslims to use the celebration to reflect on their past activities so that they may take corrective measures towards improving their relationship with their creator.
According to him, Eid-El fitr celebration marks the end of the mandatory fasting which entailed abstinence from some of the most basic human needs such as eating, drinking and pleasure of the flesh during the day.
“Fasting strengthens our faith in the Almighty Allah, purifies our souls and guides our utterances and conduct. “Muslims believe that Ramadan teaches self discipline, self control, sacrifice and empathy with those who are the less privileged, thus encouraging actions of generosity and clarity.
“It is my hope that we will continue to be responsible in both our utterances and conduct even after the Ramadan period, as believers, we should be guided by the teachings of Ramadan in our day to day dealings with our brothers and sisters and extend hands of fellowship to adherents of other faith”, the governor appealed to Muslims.
He also called on them to consider the occasion as a period to imbibe the spirit of forgiveness, love, generosity and respect for one another.
Bala Mohammed said the state government on its part, is committed to maintaining peaceful and harmonious coexistence amongst the various interest groups in the state.
“I would like to appeal to all and sundry to join hands with the government towards our resolve to establish a peaceful, prosperous and united Bauchi state.”
On COVID-19 pandemic, the governor observed that the, current economic downturn and its attendant consequences arising from the virus will no doubt have adverse effect on how majority of the people celebrate the Eid-El Fitr.
“I want you to see this as a temporary setback that affects the whole world and it will be over in no distant future by the grace of Almighty Allah. “Government has eased the lockdown restrictions in consideration of the tremendous achievement recorded in preventing the spread of COVID-19 pandemic in the state.”
He tasked people not to relax in taking preventive measures such as, maintaining social and physical distancing, observing constant washing of hands with soap and water, use of face masks among others.
He assured that, government is doing everything possible to alleviate the sufferings of its people in addition to the measures taken to contain the spread of the disease.
“Government is not unaware of the discomfort our people are facing both economically and spiritually as a result of this pandemic, which is why I directed the early payment of May salaries and pensions to enable the workers and retirees to celebrate the Eid-El fitr joyfully. “I assure you that the present administration will not fail in its responsibilities to see to the welfare of the people of the state”, he added.
The Governor called on all motorists to observe traffic regulations so as to reduce accidents on highways throughout the period of the celebration.
